Herbie - Foxthyme Herbie Goes Dutch
Owner Hannie Warendorf : : Breeder Enid Lord (Foxthyme)
Herbie is one of the most recognisable Lancashire heelers of the last decade, due as much to the photography talents of owner Hannie Warendorf as Herbie's own photogenic qualities. Herbie was tragically taken from us in March 2011, at the age of 10 years. In May he was featured in 'Onze Hond' magazine where as 'Dog of the month' promoting the breed in his native Holland. There is no doubt that the wonderful images that Hannie has shared with us all will ensure his timeless pressence. One of Herbie's photographs has also won a place in the 2012 Royal Canin calendar.
With kind permission of the editor of 'Onze Hond' and photographer Alice Von Kempen the centrefold feature is shown here as our tribute to Herbie. A translation of the article is also provided below courtesy of Dick Koster, Netherlands Lancashire Heeler Club
Translation courtesy Dick Koster
The Lancashire Heeler, also called Ormskirk Heeler, has been known for decades in the county of Lancashire in Northwest England. The Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) has contributed to its appearance, and also the Manchester Terrier is often mentioned in this regard.
The Lancashire Heeler was used to drive cattle to slaughterhouses and hence got the nickname “butcher’s dog”. During drives the Lancashire Heeler snapped the hocks of rhe cows, and then ducked, which gave him his second nick name “nip ‘n duck dog”. They also kept the farms clear of vermin. They were very popular with poachers because they caught rabbits very efficiently and, because they we so small, they could be smuggled out of the village in a bag! Their colour made them even more popular as they were rather difficult to trace in the dark.
In 1981, the UK Kennel Club recognised the breed. Since 2009 the breed has also been recognised nationally by the Dutch Kennel Club, Raad van Beheer, and Herbie was the first champion in Holland.
The Lancashire Heeler is a small powerful working dog, that is energetic, courageous, happy and affectionate. they are a sturdy dog in a small casing. Due to its Terrier and Corgi ancestry they need a clear upbringing and training. Heelers are sporting dogs who enjoy undertaking activities together with their masters. Its fine undercoat is covered by a short, thick, harsh flat uppercoat that is a little bit longer on the neck. The coat colour is black or liver with tan markings. The ideal height at the whithers is 30 cms for males (12 inches) and 25 cms for bitches (10 inches).
